PostDoc position: Development of bioleaching process for battery recycling

You are a highly motivated PostDoc interested in the mechanistic investigation of bioleaching processes in collaboration with leading European academic and industrial partners?

Then this could be the right place for you!

*That’s the project*

The EU-project BeyondBattRec aims at integrating emerging technological tools to enhance the battery recycling rate in agreement with Europe’s circular economy strategy. The consortium consists of 13 multidisciplinary partners from 7 European states, comprising industries, academia, and research & technology organizations. Based on the expertise in this area, the acib team will be involved in the recycling of cathode materials, for the recovery of critical metals through innovative bio-leaching processes. Therefore, processes to produce biogenic sulfuric acid using mixed cultures of sulfur-oxidizing bacteria out of waste elemental sulfur which is left from biogas desulfurization will be developed. By combination with and development of a membrane system to produce concentrated biogenic sulfuric in collaboration with consortium partners, the process of bioleaching should be optimized. Furthermore, the potential of enzyme-based strategies to enhance metal recovery will be evaluated. Detailed mechanistic investigations of the bioleaching and recovery processes using advanced analytical tools as basis for optimization will be an important aspect.

*That could be your future*

You are working in an enjoyable work climate, have numerous possibilities for further education and personal development. You are part of a challenging and helpful work environment full of team spirit and enthusiasm for your job. You expand your expertise and bridge your science to industry. We offer you fully flexible working hours and a package of voluntary social benefits (e.g. meal vouchers or tickets for public transport) are also part of our modern corporate culture.

And not to forget: You make your research visible and broaden your network!

*That’s important to us*

The ideal candidate should hold an PhD degree in biotechnology, microbiology, chemistry, or equivalent, and should have excellent academic qualifications. Experience in bioleaching, cultivation, and identification of acidophilic microorganisms, together with knowledge in analytical techniques will be an added advantage. Candidates should be willing to immerse themselves in the project quickly, have good communication skills in English and be motivated to work in an inter- and transdisciplinary team at the Campus in Tulln. The successful candidate should also enjoy collaborations with scientists and engineers outside of their discipline and should already have experience in project management.

*That’s what you should know*

-The annual gross salary is EUR 66.532,20.

-This corresponds to a monthly net amount of EUR 3.053,81 (paid 14 times a year).

-Start: 15th of January 2025

-Our research group is located at the Institute of Environmental Biotechnology at BOKU Vienna, (Campus Tulln)

And now it’s your turn! Give us an idea of who you are!

Apply via the application portal: short.acib.at/14-2024

Application deadline: 31st of October 2024